Things To Do
in Redmond
Redmond, Washington sits on the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish, just east of Seattle. It blends a high-tech presence with a strong outdoor and community vibe. Downtown Redmond offers a walkable core of shops, cafes, and family-friendly events.
With abundant parks, trails, and a thriving dining scene, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the Puget Sound region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Redmond Saturday Market, where local vendors showcase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café, savoring artisan pastries and locally roasted coffee. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant public art.
After lunch, explore the Redmond Historical Society and learn about the city’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits. Visit the nearby Redmond Town Center for some shopping, where you'll find a mix of boutique stores and well-known brands. Spend the afternoon in the lush Marymoor Park, enjoying a leisurely walk or renting a bike to discover the park's scenic trails.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a tasting of Redmond’s craft beers, paired with delicious food truck offerings. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, often accompanied by live music or trivia nights. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the Sammamish River Trail, taking in the serene views of the water and surrounding nature.
Kick off your day with a morning yoga session at Marymoor Park, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. Afterward, grab a breakfast burrito from a nearby café and prepare for a day of outdoor activities. Spend some time birdwatching or exploring the park’s many trails, taking in the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
In the afternoon, dive into some exciting activities like rock climbing at the park's climbing wall or renting a kayak to paddle on the Sammamish River. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the shade of the trees, relishing the fresh air and peaceful ambiance. After lunch, visit the park's off-leash dog area, where you can play with friendly pups or simply enjoy watching them frolic.
As evening approaches, gather around a fire pit at the park's designated area for s'mores and storytelling with friends. Alternatively, enjoy an outdoor movie screening if available, surrounded by blankets and snacks. End your day with a peaceful walk through the park, as the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel (budget) per night | $120-180 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $4-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong access to outdoor recreation and parks
- Walkable downtown with shops and cafés
- Proximity to Seattle and the Eastside tech corridor
- Well-regarded safety profile and high quality of life
- Weather can be rainy and gray much of the year
- High cost of living and dining out can be pricey
- Traffic on major corridors during peak hours
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
Places to Visit in Redmond
Visit one of these nice places.
Open fields, waterways, and pasturelands provide wide-angle views and bird photography opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Architectural lines and seasonal storefront displays make for clean urban composition in the heart of the town.
Accessible viewpoints along the lake offer reflective water scenes, especially during golden hour.
Nearby bridges and river bends provide dynamic landscape shots with water, trees, and pedestrians.
Food in Redmond
Redmond Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of regional menus, often prepared with regional salmon and served with seasonal vegetables; look for it at Northwest-style bistros around downtown Redmond.
Must-Try!
A popular dish in Japanese-American eateries and food trucks; a comforting, sweet-savory option featuring chicken or beef over rice with vegetables.
Creamy, hearty chowder highlighting Pacific Northwest shellfish; commonly found in local seafood spots and cafes.
Susceptible to local berries like marionberries and blues; a dessert staple in many bakeries and family-run restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in Downtown Redmond with local produce, prepared foods, crafts, and live music on select weekends.
A hub for fresh produce, bakery items, and street foods from regional farmers and vendors during the warmer months.
A rotating assortment of food trucks around Downtown Redmond offering diverse street food options from tacos to Asian-inspired bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and polite small talk are common; say please and thank you. Respect personal space and keep noise reasonable in quiet residential areas.
Yield to pedestrians on shared paths; keep right on trails and bicycles; follow posted signs in parks.
Dispose of litter properly; recycle where possible; be mindful of local wildlife and stay on designated trails.
Safety
Tipping in Redmond
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., typical restaurant tips are 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. Round up for smaller services or provide a bit more for exceptional service; tip drivers and bar staff accordingly.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, along with contactless payments. Cash is useful for street vendors and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flowers; expect frequent showers. A great time for park walks and street-side cafés.
Warm days with long daylight hours; outdoor dining and events are common. Stay hydrated and keep sunscreen handy.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; great for scenic drives, trails, and outdoor photography.
Cool and rainy conditions dominate; occasional snow is possible. Indoor activities and cozy dining are popular.
Redmond at Night
Hiking in Redmond
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well-maintained trails through mature forest and wetlands; a popular spot for weekend hikers.
Extensive loop trails suitable for easy day hikes and scenic strolls with lake views nearby.
A classic hike for more experienced hikers; a longer day trip from Redmond with rewarding views.
Airports
How to reach Redmond by plane.
Major international gateway about 20-30 miles from Redmond; access via I-5 or regional transit and connections to the Eastside.
Secondary airport serving the region with domestic flights; convenient for quick trips and regional connections.
Smaller airport near Seattle; used for private flights and some regional services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents work in technology and related industries, contributing to a cosmopolitan and highly educated community.
Many families and upwardly mobile professionals choose Redmond for its schools, safety, and lifestyle.
A diverse population with cultures from around the world, reflecting the broader Seattle area's global ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular community sport with leagues and pickup games across the region.
Courts and leagues available in parks and community centers.
Local runs and races frequently organized along the Sammamish River Trail and nearby parks.
Several courses in the area, including Willows Run and nearby clubs, offer scenic play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Redmond.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Redmond restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for plant-based bowls, salads, and veggie mains. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-forward dishes or substitutions such as added beans, tofu, or roasted vegetables.